There are some children who suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The symptoms exhibited by these children are:
1) They have a low level of concentration and a very poor attention span.
2) Poor concentration and memory
3) Impulsiveness – the trait of doing things without thinking first
4) Easily frustrated – often leading to temper tantrums and outbursts
Of course all children (and adults) show difficulties such as these at various times. For the child with ADHD, however, these difficulties are so great that they have experienced failures in various areas such as
a) Participating in activities at school such as getting work done, paying attention, maintaining focus, being attentive in class etc.
b) at home (are not able to finish chores, are clumsy, get into fights with siblings and more)
c) socially (unable to take turns or wait in line, bossy and overbearing, easily frustrated leading to temper outbursts and aggression, impulsive, so often in trouble for doing antisocial actions e.g. unwise “practical jokes”).
ADHD is not a malfunction of any body part as it is in conditions like asthma or diabetes. This condition of ADHD happens because parts of brain are not working at full efficiency
What is clear is that ADHD does run in families and is at least partially genetic – often a parent has the same symptoms. What is also clear is that the symptoms, and therefore the problems, are long term. They are not going to go away or be cured in a short period of time, but are almost certainly going to continue through into the teen years, and probably even into adulthood.
How do you manage ADHD?
What bothers children suffering from ADHD is the danger and fear of long term implications and complications. For example:
a) because they can not concentrate, they may fail in school and so drop out,
b) They fear of being thrown out from school and landing into trouble with the police only because of their impulsive attitude.
c) may turn to social ills like drugs, crime, drink because of their constant failures.
All of these may then have long term implications even into adulthood.
What you cannot beat has to be managed, and the goal of good management is to avoid complications. Since the process of management is a long term commitment, the only people who can effectively ensure its putting into place are the parents. The parents who live with the child, understand his needs and requirements and are the foremost people who are concerned with the well being of the child are the ones who need to take a proactive part in managing this difficulty. Unless parents themselves take the lead, all efforts of others shall go to naught. It is only when parents take an active part that the efforts of others shall bear fruit too. Some of the components of effective management of ADHD are:
COMMITTED PARENTS who will work for the best for their child. There is much information, including books and videos, on ADHD and how to help your child – borrow them, buy them, read them, and become informed. But remember there is also much mis-information (especially on the internet and in newspapers and magazines), so discuss what you read with your local support group and professionals. Be especially suspicious of groups who claim to have the “magic cure” for your child.
GOOD COMMUNICATION is very essential between parents, support groups and the school teachers. If all three groups care to communicate and solve particular problems it will be beneficial for the child.
ADJUSTMENTS IN THE ENVIRONMENT. Children with ADHD do best in a quiet, calm, structured, low-stimulation environment (e.g. one to one) and poorly in chaotic situations (e.g. busy classrooms, noisy, busy homes). As a family you may want to find ways to reorganise life so that it is less stressful for all of you. At school the teachers will be doing the same, and it is best if the two can be co-ordinated.
CLEAR BEHAVIORAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGY Children with ADHD have to be given clear and exact instructions and expectations. If they are clear on the reward and punishment system then they will adjust their behavior accordingly. The support or the social worker can help you devise strategies for a Clear behavioral management program to help your child.
PARENTAL SUPPORT. Since getting along wit these children and bringing them up takes a lot of doing , the parents themselves are likely to get depressed and break up. To avoid marriages to break up and to maintain harmony, it is advisable for parents themselves to seek assistance from parent support groups, parent training groups, respite care, marital counseling, family therapy are such support groups and organizations.
MEDICATION for ADHD should be such that reduces the symptoms and lets the child the opportunity to learn academic, social, and other life skills. The aim here should be to get the correct medicine in the right dosage. child the opportunity to learn academic, social, and other life skills.
ADHD patients are given various medicines. Most of these are stimulants and a new rage is a medicine called atomoxetine. This is a new medicine for ADHD and is seen to be working very well and with negligible side effects. More information on this new wonder drug could be sought from the doctor.
As health professionals we cannot raise your child for you, nor can we solve all your problems as you travel with your child along life’s journey. What we can do, however, is to assist you in getting unstuck when you get stuck along the way. We will try to help you to sort out all of the above points as best you can.
The person who has to cope with this is you and your family. Therefore, this is best addressed by you and the first step towards this is to learn as much as you can. Learning all you can results in better management and better results.
Dealing With Adhd Stop struggling with your children’s behavior problems any more. Discover the right techniques and tips to assist you have a joyous, peaceful household. Adhd Effects
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